We have had another busy week at The Sparrow's Nest!!!! Last weekend Jody taught a fabulous class called, "Surface Explorations". I have never seen someone who is so organized. Her instructions were amazingly clear and all of her students were tremendously successful. She taught about 16 different background techniques using a variety of mediums, paint and applications. Each of us walked away with a treasure book of information with clear instructions on the back of every different background page that we made. The book, all by itself, is awesome....but all the techniques were really fun to learn. It was a fast paced class but with Jody's demeanor and organization everyone felt calm and very successful.
We had our first Open Studio time on Tuesday afternoon from 1:00-4:00. We are planning to have consistent Open Studio times on Tuesday afternoons and one Friday evening (6:30-9:30) a month.Our first evening Open Studio will be this Friday. This whole idea came from our love to create with other people. It's magic when people are in the art groove together. It's a true celebration of friendship. Also we are aware that not everyone has the luxury of a huge space to spread out art projects. The tables and the tools are there to help you make something unbelievable. I really hope you will come and join us. We are out in the Studio anyway....it's one of our favorite activities to do together.
This Saturday from 11:00 - 4:00 will be one of our Valentine workshops. We have three fun projects that you will be able to finish completely. Each project costs $12.00 and we will be there ready to help. The projects are darling and will be fun as gifts for others or as treasures for your own use. I think it's going to be fun. Come if you can, whenever you can between 11 and 4. You can make one, two or three of the projects. The pictures of them are in the photo part of this blog.
We are listening carefully to all the feedback that people give us about the Studio and about the classes. We are so committed to our dream.....and we can tell that when people are in that space...spirits are soaring.
With lots of creative tingles,
Sherri
P.S. On my walks lately I have noticed the beginnings of little buds showing on some of the trees....especially when I go through Cornwall Park. How exciting!!!! Maybe we are getting closer to Spring.....a little closer anyway!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Monday, January 17, 2011
Winter Happenings!!!
Winter has hit hard in Whatcom County. I think it's time to do some beautiful artwork. We are busy creating a few new ways to motivate artists who are interested in working with us at The Sparrow's Nest Studio. The Studio was so quiet during the Holiday season. It is time to turn on the heaters and do some amazing art. Hopefully, some of our new ideas will excite you. We'd love to have you join us.
1) Open Studio Time: We will be opening the Sparrow's Nest Studio to people who are looking for a space to spread out their projects, use the arts tools that we have available, not worry about the wonderful mess you may make and most important...do your own artwork alongside others who thrive on the artistic process. Our Open Srudio sessions will be three hours long and will cost $10.00. We would love to have you come in and throw some paint and glitter around and we will clean up after you. Sounds absolutely perfect,
2) Curious Winter Workshops: We will be offering two different workshops over the next five weeks. Each workshop will offer three different activities that can be done by any skill level. Children over the age of 9 are welcome when they are accompanied by a participating adult. Our goal is to provide people with the opportunity to make some really fun treasures for yourself or ones that are suitable for gift giving. The studio will be open for five hours during the workshop days. Each project is expected to be able to be completed within one hour with a few exceptions for those that get carried away. The five hour time slot allows you to choose one or more projects. The cost of each project will be $12.00 and all materials and instruction will be included.
3) Replentish your Stash: We have heard that some of our artist friends are getting low in their supply of hand painted background papers. We are offering a workshop where we will revisit a variety of background techniques. This is a four hour workshop that will cost $25.00. We can promise that you will walk away with a plethora of amazing background papers that are suitable for journaling, collage, book covers and much more.
4) Creating your own class: If you have seen a class during our previous quarters that has interested you just remember that you only need to gather four people in order for that class to be offered on your schedule. Our classes can also be used as fabulous ways to celebrate birthdays or nights out with your friends. It's a super alternative way to commemorate your special occasion. Just call Sherri (360-733-9031) to set up your class.
Open Studio Times:
Tuesdays, January 25th through February 22nd, 1-4pm
Fridays, January 28th and February 25th, 6:30-9:30pm
Winter Workshops:
Saturday, January 29th, 11-4pm, Mini Secret Love Book, Needle Felted Heart Pin, Dangly Wire Rapped Heart Earrings
Sunday, February 20th, 11-4pm, Paper Bag Book, Charming Charm Bracelet, Mixed-Media Prosperity Mobile
Replenish Your Stash:
Saturday, February 26th, 12:30-4:30pm.
We hope that you find these new ideas exciting. We are so ready to feel the creative excitement that 2011 is sure to bring. If you are interested in one or more of these offerings please contact Sherri (360-733-9031). Space is limited.
1) Open Studio Time: We will be opening the Sparrow's Nest Studio to people who are looking for a space to spread out their projects, use the arts tools that we have available, not worry about the wonderful mess you may make and most important...do your own artwork alongside others who thrive on the artistic process. Our Open Srudio sessions will be three hours long and will cost $10.00. We would love to have you come in and throw some paint and glitter around and we will clean up after you. Sounds absolutely perfect,
2) Curious Winter Workshops: We will be offering two different workshops over the next five weeks. Each workshop will offer three different activities that can be done by any skill level. Children over the age of 9 are welcome when they are accompanied by a participating adult. Our goal is to provide people with the opportunity to make some really fun treasures for yourself or ones that are suitable for gift giving. The studio will be open for five hours during the workshop days. Each project is expected to be able to be completed within one hour with a few exceptions for those that get carried away. The five hour time slot allows you to choose one or more projects. The cost of each project will be $12.00 and all materials and instruction will be included.
3) Replentish your Stash: We have heard that some of our artist friends are getting low in their supply of hand painted background papers. We are offering a workshop where we will revisit a variety of background techniques. This is a four hour workshop that will cost $25.00. We can promise that you will walk away with a plethora of amazing background papers that are suitable for journaling, collage, book covers and much more.
4) Creating your own class: If you have seen a class during our previous quarters that has interested you just remember that you only need to gather four people in order for that class to be offered on your schedule. Our classes can also be used as fabulous ways to celebrate birthdays or nights out with your friends. It's a super alternative way to commemorate your special occasion. Just call Sherri (360-733-9031) to set up your class.
Open Studio Times:
Tuesdays, January 25th through February 22nd, 1-4pm
Fridays, January 28th and February 25th, 6:30-9:30pm
Winter Workshops:
Saturday, January 29th, 11-4pm, Mini Secret Love Book, Needle Felted Heart Pin, Dangly Wire Rapped Heart Earrings
Sunday, February 20th, 11-4pm, Paper Bag Book, Charming Charm Bracelet, Mixed-Media Prosperity Mobile
Replenish Your Stash:
Saturday, February 26th, 12:30-4:30pm.
We hope that you find these new ideas exciting. We are so ready to feel the creative excitement that 2011 is sure to bring. If you are interested in one or more of these offerings please contact Sherri (360-733-9031). Space is limited.
Monday, January 3, 2011
The Holidays are Over
AHHHHHH!!! Today I got up and went on a beautiful walk with my dogs. It was so pretty out...I know we've all been enjoying the recent sun but I've been so busy I really haven't gotten outside and taken a deep breath (how sad is that). I went on an off leash trail and I loved watching "the girls" explore the area....play....and then run back to me for a pet and a smile.
Jazzy,, as usual, found an awesome stick and carried it for a long time even when we got on the road and I had to put her leash on. She looked so proud. One woman stopped her car and asked me if this was common. My little Jasper (as the Vandermays call her....but her name is Jazzy) is really an amazing dog. She's getting older but she hasn't lost any of her earnestness and sense of play. On our walks she usually chooses a stick, hoping I will throw it, but these days she is just as happy to carry it. She is mighty in her stick choosing.....she has brought me little twigs and also entire tree branches that she drags with her. She's a rascal....but such a joy.
The activities at the Sparrow's Nest Studio have been quiet over the Christmas Holiday, but we have been meeting and thinking hard about how we want the winter quarter to go. There will be more news about that.....we haven't gotten it all firmed up yet....but we do have a busy January. Both Jody and I have classes that had to be postponed during the Fall quarter and we now have those dates set and waiting for students.
Jody's Surface Exploration Class is going to be on January 22, 2011, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The class fee is $50 amd there is a $5 charge for materials that Jody will be bringing. When you register for this class I will send you a supply list. We have a few spots left. If you are interested please let me know (sherangie@comcast.net).
I have two classes that have been scheduled. The first is my Visual Journaling-level 2 that will begin on the evening of January 20th (from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) and will go for the three Thursdays after that. I can't wait to reconnect with these special women. I feel like Journaling-level one is just the beginning of our time together....we have more to do.
I will also be offering my Magical Papers class on February 6th from 12:30 - 4:30. This is a two part class...the first part we explore how to paint and manipulate plain paper bags into beautiful background papers. These papers are very sturdy and can be used in your own art as collage pieces, card making, gift wrapping, journal covers.....they can even be sewn on. During the second part of the class we will make waxed paper dolls out of paper bags. I think the finished products are really wonderful. I have a whole collection of dolls on my mantel. There is still room left so let me know if you are interested. The class fee is $35.00.
We are all very excited about getting back into the studio. It needs people in it....creating, laughing, finding their creative spirit and sharing with one another. Keep checking back here.....there is more news to come.
Jazzy,, as usual, found an awesome stick and carried it for a long time even when we got on the road and I had to put her leash on. She looked so proud. One woman stopped her car and asked me if this was common. My little Jasper (as the Vandermays call her....but her name is Jazzy) is really an amazing dog. She's getting older but she hasn't lost any of her earnestness and sense of play. On our walks she usually chooses a stick, hoping I will throw it, but these days she is just as happy to carry it. She is mighty in her stick choosing.....she has brought me little twigs and also entire tree branches that she drags with her. She's a rascal....but such a joy.
The activities at the Sparrow's Nest Studio have been quiet over the Christmas Holiday, but we have been meeting and thinking hard about how we want the winter quarter to go. There will be more news about that.....we haven't gotten it all firmed up yet....but we do have a busy January. Both Jody and I have classes that had to be postponed during the Fall quarter and we now have those dates set and waiting for students.
Jody's Surface Exploration Class is going to be on January 22, 2011, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The class fee is $50 amd there is a $5 charge for materials that Jody will be bringing. When you register for this class I will send you a supply list. We have a few spots left. If you are interested please let me know (sherangie@comcast.net).
I have two classes that have been scheduled. The first is my Visual Journaling-level 2 that will begin on the evening of January 20th (from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) and will go for the three Thursdays after that. I can't wait to reconnect with these special women. I feel like Journaling-level one is just the beginning of our time together....we have more to do.
I will also be offering my Magical Papers class on February 6th from 12:30 - 4:30. This is a two part class...the first part we explore how to paint and manipulate plain paper bags into beautiful background papers. These papers are very sturdy and can be used in your own art as collage pieces, card making, gift wrapping, journal covers.....they can even be sewn on. During the second part of the class we will make waxed paper dolls out of paper bags. I think the finished products are really wonderful. I have a whole collection of dolls on my mantel. There is still room left so let me know if you are interested. The class fee is $35.00.
We are all very excited about getting back into the studio. It needs people in it....creating, laughing, finding their creative spirit and sharing with one another. Keep checking back here.....there is more news to come.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Again....This thing about time!!!!
I cannot believe that my last entry was before the retreat. It seems like that happened only yesterday. The amazing thing is that today is November 1 and the retreat happened in September!!! Incredible!!! I wish that someone could invent a way to hold on to time....then maybe I wouldn't lose days, weeks, months.
Of course the retreat was unbelievable. Everyone seemed to have fun. I know that for Jody, Tracy and I it was a success. We were blown away by the awesome talent and energy that was surging in the walls of the Sparrow's Nest!!!! I'm sure that there was a surging glow around the studio building...magic was happening and what a honor it was for me to be a part of it. The creations were amazing. Every once in a while I would make myself stop and just look around and listen. There was laughter, there was silence, there were deep looks of concentration and there were smiles galore. Everyone left with three wonderful projects (all relating to birds). They all looked tired but truly happy and excited by the event.
Our classes continue to all have room for more students. My layered collage class is coming up this weekend....I'd love to have a few more folks in order to make it a nice sized group. Both Jody and Tracy have classes coming up and still have room. Jody's Surface Explorations class is happening on Nov. 13th and Tracy's Beaded Lapel Pin class (Nov.15th) still has room. Our visiting Artist's classess all still have room. Their projects are so amazing. If you are interested in any of these please let me know.
I know that these are stressful, busy times for so many of us. I believe "doing art" can be a way to slow down, to touch our true spirits and to let good energy out into the Universe. Sometimes setting aside time just for you, where you are lovingly led through a new art technique, can be the best boost ever. Our Studio, our classes and our teachers offer the perfect resting spot where busy lives can be set aside and where your spirit can soar.
Thank you for your continued support! Jody, Tracy and I are still committed to our dream. I hope that you will come and join us.
Love Sherri
Of course the retreat was unbelievable. Everyone seemed to have fun. I know that for Jody, Tracy and I it was a success. We were blown away by the awesome talent and energy that was surging in the walls of the Sparrow's Nest!!!! I'm sure that there was a surging glow around the studio building...magic was happening and what a honor it was for me to be a part of it. The creations were amazing. Every once in a while I would make myself stop and just look around and listen. There was laughter, there was silence, there were deep looks of concentration and there were smiles galore. Everyone left with three wonderful projects (all relating to birds). They all looked tired but truly happy and excited by the event.
Our classes continue to all have room for more students. My layered collage class is coming up this weekend....I'd love to have a few more folks in order to make it a nice sized group. Both Jody and Tracy have classes coming up and still have room. Jody's Surface Explorations class is happening on Nov. 13th and Tracy's Beaded Lapel Pin class (Nov.15th) still has room. Our visiting Artist's classess all still have room. Their projects are so amazing. If you are interested in any of these please let me know.
I know that these are stressful, busy times for so many of us. I believe "doing art" can be a way to slow down, to touch our true spirits and to let good energy out into the Universe. Sometimes setting aside time just for you, where you are lovingly led through a new art technique, can be the best boost ever. Our Studio, our classes and our teachers offer the perfect resting spot where busy lives can be set aside and where your spirit can soar.
Thank you for your continued support! Jody, Tracy and I are still committed to our dream. I hope that you will come and join us.
Love Sherri
Friday, September 24, 2010
Tingles all over!!!!
Oh My Gosh!!!! I am so excited for the retreat!!! I am tingling all over! However, every time I see myself in a mirror or in a window reflection I still yelp at the color of my hair...funny what one will do after a few years of stress. Today I am full of joy and feelings of thanksgiving...amazing Sparrow's Nest Partners, loving friends, so much laughter, wonderful children, a loving step-daughter who spends late nights with me, the color purple and pink....the list goes on and on. I know that this will be a magical weekend!
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Our Fall Retreat Is Quickly Approaching
I have begun to carry my list and pencil with me "EVERYWHERE" I go. I find myself remembering things at the strangest times and know, all too well, that if I don't write it down it will be forgotten. This is always one of my favorite times at The Sparrow's Nest Studio.....preparation for one of our retreats. I have partners.....there are three of us....and alot of the reason is that there always seems to one of us that is ready to say, "whoa girls....we're pushing things too far", or "Are you kidding...you want llama kissing to be part of the event....I don't think so". I am thankful for the "voice of reason" wherever it comes from.
I believe the world is a better place after our retreats. I believe that the strength of creative women is amazing. I also believe that encouraging people to play, to laugh and to let go of their daily worries is a wonderful thing. We provide a time and a place for twelve women to come and be surrounded by color, joy and true fun....so many deserve this but I am honored to give it to at least twelve.
The people that come to our retreats are true warriors. Usually they have no idea what to expect but they are willing to walk through our doors and take the ride. It isn't easy for anyone to give themselves a day and a half to just play. That takes courage and a strong willingness to just "Let Go", knowing somewhere deep, that this can be a healing experience. I am aware of the trust it takes to participate in something like this. We feel honored that everyone is willing to stand with us and play a little. And most of the attendees know that I am often close to the edge......crazy......but they seem to be willing to come and experience all that is The Sparrow's Nest Studio.
Tracy, Jody and I are waiting impatiently for you to arrive. We are thinking about each one of you....sending special, loving, joyful thoughts your way. We are working hard to make this a truly, special experience.
I believe the world is a better place after our retreats. I believe that the strength of creative women is amazing. I also believe that encouraging people to play, to laugh and to let go of their daily worries is a wonderful thing. We provide a time and a place for twelve women to come and be surrounded by color, joy and true fun....so many deserve this but I am honored to give it to at least twelve.
The people that come to our retreats are true warriors. Usually they have no idea what to expect but they are willing to walk through our doors and take the ride. It isn't easy for anyone to give themselves a day and a half to just play. That takes courage and a strong willingness to just "Let Go", knowing somewhere deep, that this can be a healing experience. I am aware of the trust it takes to participate in something like this. We feel honored that everyone is willing to stand with us and play a little. And most of the attendees know that I am often close to the edge......crazy......but they seem to be willing to come and experience all that is The Sparrow's Nest Studio.
Tracy, Jody and I are waiting impatiently for you to arrive. We are thinking about each one of you....sending special, loving, joyful thoughts your way. We are working hard to make this a truly, special experience.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Class schedule is up and photos posted!!
The class schedule is up! Click on the "classes" tab at the top to view. Photos of classes are in the Gallery tab and at the slideshow in the left sidebar.
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